Middle East & Africa Drinkable Yogurt Market Outlook, 2028

In the Middle East and Africa, yoghurt has long been a staple in traditional diets and culinary practises. The region has a rich dairy heritage, and yoghurt is often consumed as a part of meals or as a standalone snack. The cultural significance of yoghurt as a wholesome and nutritious food has positively influenced the acceptance and consumption of drinkable yoghurt. The developing spotlight on wellbeing and health is driving interest in drinkable yoghurt in the MEA district. Customers are looking for items that offer practical advantages, for example, stomach-related wellbeing, invulnerability backing, and probiotic content. Drinkable yoghurt has emerged as an appealing option for consumers who are concerned about their health as a result of the perception that yoghurt is a natural and healthy food. With increasing consumer awareness of the health benefits of yoghurt and the on-going trends of health consciousness and convenience, the MEA drinkable yoghurt market holds significant growth potential. Manufacturers can capitalise on this opportunity by introducing new flavours, improving product formulations, and expanding their distribution networks. In many countries in the Middle East and Africa, drinkable yoghurt is an essential ingredient in traditional recipes. For example, in the Levant region, it is used in dishes like labanah (strained yoghurt cheese), tzatziki (yoghurt and cucumber dip), and ayran (a yoghurt-based beverage). These recipes have cultural significance and are enjoyed as part of daily meals or on festive occasions. Drinkable yoghurt is popular among parents as a healthy and convenient snack option for children. Its appealing flavours and smooth texture make it enjoyable for kids while providing them with essential nutrients like calcium, protein, and vitamins.

According to the research report Middle East and Africa Drinkable Yoghurt Market Outlook, 2028, the Middle East and Africa Drinkable Yoghurt market is anticipated to reach a USD 2.38 billion market size by the end of the forecast period. Yoghurt has been a part of Middle Eastern and African cuisine and culture for centuries. It is deeply ingrained in the traditional diets and culinary practises of many countries in the region. The familiarity and cultural significance of yoghurt have contributed to the demand for drinkable yoghurt as a modern and convenient form of consumption. The Middle East and Africa have diverse flavour preferences influenced by regional cuisines and local tastes. Drinkable yoghurt manufacturers in the MEA region cater to these preferences by offering a wide range of flavours, including traditional options like plain, mango, strawberry, and mixed berries, as well as unique regional flavours. This flavour diversity appeals to consumers and drives market demand. Based on the categories, the segment includes dairy-based yoghurt and non-dairy-based or vegan yoghurt in the Middle East and Africa. Dairy-based yoghurt has the highest market share, while non- or vegan yoghurt is expected to grow at the highest CAGR rate. Increasingly, consumers in the MEA region are adopting plant-based diets or seeking dairy alternatives due to health concerns, dietary restrictions, or personal preferences. Non-dairy yoghurt offers a viable option for individuals who follow a vegan or lactose-free diet or those looking to reduce their consumption of animal-based products. The MEA region is diverse, with a range of cultural and religious practises that influence dietary choices. Some religious or cultural practises may promote or require the avoidance of certain animal products, including dairy. Non-dairy yoghurt allows individuals to adhere to these dietary guidelines while still enjoying yoghurt-like products. During the holy month of Ramadan, when Muslims fast from dawn to sunset, drinkable yoghurt becomes a popular choice for breaking the fast (iftar) and providing hydration and nutrition. It is often consumed alongside dates, a traditional way to break the fast.

Based on the types of segments, which include flavoured and plain, the flavoured segment in the Middle East and Africa has the highest market share. Middle Eastern consumers who value a variety of tastes and flavours in their food and beverages are drawn to flavoured drinkable yoghurt. The locale has a rich culinary legacy with many conventional flavours. Drinkable yoghurt manufacturers in the Middle East cater to the diverse tastes of consumers by offering popular flavours like mango, strawberry, mixed berries, and others. Flavorful and aromatic ingredients are often used in Middle Eastern cuisine and beverages. This cultural influence extends to the preference for flavoured drinkable yoghurt. Traditional Middle Eastern flavours like rosewater, saffron, cardamom, and pistachio are sometimes incorporated into flavoured drinkable yoghurt to provide a unique and familiar taste experience. Based on the packaging types, the segment includes cups, bottles, tetra packs, and pouches. In the Middle East and Africa, the Cup segment has the highest market share, and in the future, the Tetra Pack is expected to grow at the highest CAGR rate.

There are several opportunities and constraints in the drinkable yoghurt market. There is a rising awareness of and emphasis on health and wellness in the MEA region. This presents an opportunity for drinkable yoghurt, as it is perceived as a nutritious and beneficial beverage option. Manufacturers can capitalise on this trend by promoting the health benefits of drinkable yoghurt and offering innovative formulations. The MEA region has a rich culinary heritage, with consumers valuing traditional and local flavours. Manufacturers can leverage this opportunity by offering drinkable yoghurt with authentic and regional flavours that resonate with local tastes. Incorporating popular ingredients and traditional flavour profiles can attract a loyal customer base. Certain regions within the MEA market face infrastructure challenges, such as limited access to refrigeration and cold chain logistics. Maintaining the freshness and quality of drinkable yoghurt during transportation and distribution can be a challenge. Manufacturers must ensure proper storage and transportation facilities to prevent spoilage and maintain product integrity. The MEA region has diverse taste preferences, and local flavours play a significant role in food and beverage choices. Adapting drinkable yoghurt flavours to cater to local tastes and preferences is important for market acceptance. Manufacturers need to conduct market research and develop products that resonate with the local consumer palate. There are several start-ups in the drinkable yoghurt market. Yumamia is a Cairo-based foodtech startup that offers a range of fresh, healthy, and customizable meals and beverages, including dairy-based products like yoghurt smoothies. Biofood is a Nigerian startup that specialises in producing natural and healthy food products, including dairy-based beverages. They offer a range of yoghurt drinks, including drinkable yoghurt variants that are made from locally sourced ingredients. Goga is a Kenyan startup that focuses on producing and distributing healthy and nutritious dairy products. They offer a variety of yoghurt-based products, including drinkable yoghurt, targeting health-conscious consumers. Sweetkiwi is a South African frozen yoghurt brand that has expanded its offerings to include drinkable yoghurt as part of its product line. They emphasise using natural ingredients and offering a healthier alternative to traditional desserts. Tassah is a Moroccan startup that produces a range of dairy products, including yoghurt-based beverages. They offer different flavours and varieties of drinkable yoghurt, targeting the local market.

Considered in this report

• Geography: Middle East & Africa
• Historic year: 2017
• Base year: 2022
• Estimated year: 2023
• Forecast year: 2028

Aspects covered in this report

• Middle East & Africa Drinkable Yogurt market with its value and forecast along with its segments
• Country-wise Drinkable Yogurt market analysis
• Various drivers and challenges
• On-going trends and developments
• Top profiled companies
• Strategic recommendation

Countries covered in the report:

• UAE
• Saudi Arabia
• South Africa

By Category

• Dairy - Based Yogurt
• Non - Dairy Based / Vegan Yogurt

By Packaging types

• Cup
• Bottles
• Tetra Pack
• Pouches

By Distribution Channel

• Supermarket and Hypermarket
• Convenience Stores
• Speciality Stores
• Online
• Others

The approach of the report:

This report consists of a combined approach of primary as well as secondary research. Initially, secondary research was used to get an understanding of the market and listing out the companies that are present in the market. The secondary research consists of third party sources such as press releases, annual report of companies, analyzing the government generated reports and databases. After gathering the data from secondary sources primary research was conducted by making telephonic interviews with the leading players about how the market is functioning and then conducted trade calls with dealers and distributors of the market. Post this we have started doing primary calls to consumers by equally segmenting consumers in regional aspects, tier aspects, age group, and gender. Once we have primary data with us we have started verifying the details obtained from secondary sources.

Intended audience

This report can be useful to industry consultants, manufacturers, suppliers, associations & organizations related to Artificial Lawn industry, government bodies and other stakeholders to align their market-centric strategies. In addition to marketing & presentations, it will also increase competitive knowledge about the industry.